The Golden Gate Bridge served
as a real symbol of hope and progress for the Bay Area during a time of
economic crisis. The groundbreaking in 1933 was a cause for celebration.
Throughout the construction, pamphlets were printed to keep the public
informed. Images of the bridge under construction became a graphic favorite
for many areas of interest.

The bridge was declared officially
open on May 27, 1937, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt pressed a telegraph
key in the White House announcing the event to the world. Opening day was
Pedestrian Day (the bridge was opened to vehicular traffic the following
day). An estimated 200,000 people crossed the bridge on foot to marvel
at the technological wonder. The Golden Gate Bridge Fiesta was a weeklong
celebration that included a nightly pageant at Crissy Field, fireworks,
parades, tournaments, and entertainment by popular stars of the day, such
as Al Jolson.

As they always have, locals
and tourists alike continue to admire and enjoy the bridge and insist on
sharing its likeness with friends and family.